Step 1

Combine the chopped peaches, ½ cup sugar, and 2 cups water in a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring often.

Step 2

Reduce to a simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the peaches are becoming mushy.

Step 3

Remove it from the heat, cool for 30 minutes (to room temperature), then strain through a sieve.

Step 4

Juice the lemons using one of these 6 methods.I highly recommend zesting the lemons first, so you can save it for other uses or even use some lemon peel twirls as a garnish for peach drinks and other drinks and desserts.

Step 5

In a large pitcher, combine the peach syrup (there should be around 1 cup), lemon juice, and 3 cups of water/sparkling water, and stir.

Step 6

Give it a taste and adjust any of the elements (syrup, citrus, water) to your liking.If you plan to serve it all immediately, you can also add ice directly to the pitcher. I usually recommend adding the ice to individual glasses, though, so the entire batch doesn't become watered down.

Step 7

Make ahead: you can prepare the syrup several days in advance and keep it stored in the refrigerator. It will last for around 2 weeks in total in the fridge. Store: you can store the prepared peach lemonade in the fridge for between 5-7 days.  If you add any fresh fruits or herbs to the lemonade, swap these out daily. Otherwise, aim to consume the entire batch within 1-2days.